Tuff Stuff™ Mountain Hydrangea - DISCONTINUED

***We no longer offer this product. Create a similar look with Tuff Stuff Ah-Ha! The original and still one of the best! Tuff Stuff mountain hydrangea from Proven Winners changed the hydrangea world forever, thanks to its superior bud hardiness. Developed from seed collected on the chilly mountaintops of Japan, this strain naturally acquired outstanding cold tolerance in its flower buds, reducing and even eliminating the cold weather damage that has disappointed so many would-be hydrangea growers here in North America. It's almost a shame to call Tuff Stuff hydrangea "tough" because its blooms are just so darn pretty, but as we have learned, it can definitely be both. In early summer, semi-double flowers cover this neat, mounded plant. Each one is graced with a fun green eye for contrast, and the surrounding sepals will be bright pink or purple, depending on the soil. This rebloomer keeps fresh flowers coming all summer and into fall. It truly is one of the best choices for USDA zone 5 gardeners who crave the color and appeal of bigleaf hydrangeas. Tuff Stuff hydrangea is the same plant that is sold as Flair & Flavours Cotton Candy or Flair & Flavours Blueberry Cheesecake in Europe.What makes Tuff Stuff mountain hydrangea different from other mountain hydrangeas? Exceptional bud hardiness preserves flowers, even in cold weather and frosts Very neat and tidy habit looks great in the landscape or garden Details: Name: Hydrangea serrata 'MAK20' pp#24,820, cbr#4527 Hardiness: USDA zones 4-9 Height x width: 2-3' Light: Full to part sun Soil: Evenly moist but well-drained soils are best. A 2-3" layer of shredded bark mulch is recommended in all areas, all year round. Pruning: Blooms on old and new wood; do not trim or cut back, but dead wood may be removed in early spring. Water: Average to high water needs. Though mountain hydrangeas suffer if grown in wet soils, they can also become drought stressed readily and should be watered regularly. Plants in full sun and/or warmer climates will need more water than those in less sun and/or cooler areas.  Fertilizer: Fertilize once in early spring with a rose fertilizer if desired. Bloom time: Midsummer through fall. Bloom color: Flower color depends on soil pH; Tuff Stuff is a strong pink color but will turn purple in acidic soils that contain aluminum. Uses: A classic choice for including in gardens and landscaping, it also makes a nice choice for low hedges and containers.